Notes from a recent dinner:
2000 Richard Leroy Montbenault Coteaux du Layon – odd presentation initially with this medium yellow Loire – a nose showing the petrol notes of a Riesling! It changed to wax and pear fairly quickly. Off dry but well balanced and enjoyable.
2001 Rabaud-Promis Sauternes – served with foie gras! Medium amber, nice nose of bruléed orange and apricot, sweet but fairly well balanced and well matched to the food.
1996 Domaine Daniel Rion et Fils Chambolle-Musigny Beaux Bruns – medium colour, excellent raspberry nose, soft tannin and some enticing mint undertones.
1995 Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir Reserve – this one surprised me given the age. Funky nose but also bright fruit notes, a fair bit of weight on palate with resolved tannins and along finish. Good showing.
1982 Ch. La Lagune – my bottle and I hadn’t pulled one in some time. Damn! Best bottle I’ve opened in years and still holding beautifully. Fairly dark, with sweet currant nose, soft tannins, excellent fruit levels, no rush at all.
1998 Leasingham Classic Clare Shiraz – sweet American oak nose (although I think they use French oak). Mellow syrah that seemed half way between US and Aussie style.